Hearts in Action: How Local High School Students Are Making a Difference in the IDD Community

Volunteering with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is a meaningful opportunity to build genuine connections, promote inclusion, and celebrate each person’s unique strengths. It goes beyond offering help—it’s about fostering independence, dignity, and community belonging. Through shared experiences, patience, and understanding, volunteers can help create environments where individuals with IDD feel valued, empowered, and supported in reaching their personal goals. In return, volunteers often gain perspective, compassion, and lasting relationships that deeply enrich their own lives. 

Students from local high schools including LaSalle, Elder, and Oak Hills are given this opportunity to volunteer at CorMission and connect with amazing individuals with IDD. This experience helps students gain understanding, build relationships, and make a difference in the community. 

How Volunteering at CorMission Changes Students’ Lives 

Volunteering at CorMission transforms local high school students’ lives by giving them the opportunity to build meaningful connections with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Through hands-on involvement, high school students not only serve as mentors and friends, but also actively support participants in practicing daily life skills such as communication, organization, teamwork, and independent living tasks. These shared experiences foster empathy, leadership, and a deeper understanding of inclusion. As students encourage individuals with IDD to grow in confidence and independence, they also grow themselves—developing compassion, responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to making a positive difference in their communities.

One of the most powerful aspects of volunteering at CorMission is the opportunity to let go of assumptions. Many students arrive unsure of what to expect. However, as they build authentic relationships, they quickly realize that everyone has unique talents, goals, humor, and personality. Barriers begin to fade, replaced by mutual respect and appreciation. Students often share that they receive far more than they give—learning about resilience, joy, and the importance of celebrating small victories.

Discovering Hidden Strengths in Volunteerism 

Volunteering also strengthens essential leadership and communication skills. Students learn how to listen actively, adapt their communication styles, and provide encouragement in ways that empower rather than limit. They practice teamwork, responsibility, and creative thinking as they support participants in reaching personal goals. These are skills that extend far beyond the walls of CorMission, influencing how students show up in school, at home, and eventually in their careers.

How Teachers Teach Their Students About The Importance of Inclusive Volunteering 

High school teachers play an important role in expanding their students’ understanding of inclusive volunteering by bringing them to tour CorMission and experience firsthand what happens within its community. During these visits, students are introduced to a welcoming environment where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities practice daily living skills, build friendships, and grow in confidence. Teachers often use these tours as meaningful learning opportunities—allowing students to see inclusion in action rather than simply reading about it in a classroom. By observing programs, engaging in conversations, and sometimes participating in activities, students gain a deeper appreciation for diversity, empathy, and community involvement. These visits often spark curiosity, break down misconceptions, and inspire many students to return as volunteers, eager to be part of something that truly makes a difference.

Thank you for reading. Stay tuned for what’s next. 

With love,

Marisa Conners 

Remote Blog Intern